#17: Mega Ships to AmaWaterways AmaCello

Not all cruises are created equal—and Dr. Nadeen White knows that better than most.

After a lifetime of ocean cruising, Dr. White stepped aboard an AmaWaterways ship for a Rhône River sailing that changed everything. In this episode of Luxury Cruising, host Dr. Krystal Sodaitis explores how river cruising blends intimacy, cultural immersion, and personalized luxury into one unforgettable experience.

With just 110 guests, wine-themed excursions, and a chef’s table dinner that felt like an art gallery of food, Dr. White’s journey through the French countryside was a far cry from the nickel-and-dime chaos of traditional cruising. From warm towels after every excursion to dancing till midnight in the lounge, she experienced travel at its most intentional—and indulgent.

This isn’t just a travel episode. It’s a reflection on how we define luxury, and why less can truly be more.

About the Guest

Dr. Nadeen White is the founder of The Sophisticated Life, a thriving travel and lifestyle platform. After over 10 years of blogging and content creation, she launched Culinary Travels by The Sophisticated Life—a series of intimate, affordable luxury group trips designed for food and wine enthusiasts. With six continents under her belt (Antarctica, you’re next!), Dr. White crafts immersive experiences centered on cuisine, culture, and connection.

Through her collaborations in the travel, food, and wine industries, she champions BIPOC, woman-owned, and local businesses—and partners with tour operators who share those values.

🔗 Website: https://drnadeenwhite.com/
📬Newsletter: https://bit.ly/TSL2025Newsletter
📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesophislife
📘Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EhWRzbsY9/?mibextid=wwXIfr

About the Host

Dr. Krystal Sodaitis is a pediatrician, executive, and life coach for neurodiverse physicians—and the passionate host behind Luxury Cruising. She brings expert insight and honest excitement to every interview, helping curious travelers elevate their adventures at sea.

📍 Website: luxurycruising.net
📧 Email: [e-mail] 
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystalsodaitis

👥 Want to be a guest? Fill out this form to connect. 

Key Takeaways

• Fewer passengers, deeper experiences. River cruising offers intimacy, connection, and a slower pace that invites presence.
• No upsells, just indulgence. Onboard wines, gourmet meals, and curated excursions are all part of the experience—with no extra fees.
• From truffle hunts to wine classes. Culinary moments aren’t just part of the cruise—they are the cruise.
• Luxury is attention. From the bartender who knows your drink to warm towels post-tour, it's the little things that linger.
• Cruising can be soulful. Dr. White's story reminds us that true luxury lies in being fully seen, fully fed, and fully present.